BCC Extends One Stop Enrollment Center Hours

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PITTSFIELD, Mass — In preparation for the fall semester, which begins Tuesday, Sept. 3, Berkshire Community College (BCC) announces a temporary extension of One Stop Enrollment Center hours. 
 
In addition to its normal hours of 8 am – 4 pm Monday through Friday, One Stop will be open until 6 pm Monday through Thursday from Aug. 19 through Sept. 10. On Thursday, Aug. 29, Student Orientation Day, One Stop will be open until 8 pm. 
 
The One Stop Enrollment Center is a full-service operation for incoming and prospective students, who can view an admission checklist and apply, browse a course catalogue, file a financial aid form or schedule a tour without an appointment. Advisors are on hand to process applications for instant acceptance to the College, answer questions and assist with financial aid — all with one-on-one personal attention.  
 
In instances in which students need assistance outside normal or extended hours, One Stop staff will work to accommodate their schedule. 
 
Applying to the College is now easier than ever before, especially with the introduction of the Commonwealth's MassEducate and MassReconnect program. MassEducate offers free community college to all Massachusetts residents, regardless of age, who have yet to earn a bachelor's degree. MassReconnect is a similar program for students ages 25 and older. In addition to offering free tuition, both programs include an allowance for books and supplies for eligible students.  
 
For information on applying to the College, visit www.berkshirecc.edu/admission-and-aid/.  For information on MassEducate and MassReconnect, including eligibility requirements, visit www.berkshirecc.edu/freecollege.  

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Pittsfield Extinguishes 4th of July Firework Display

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass.— There will be no city-sponsored fireworks show on the Fourth of July this year. 

Pittsfield announced this on Friday, June 26, explaining it was unable to secure a vendor with availability for the display.  The historic parade and race will still kick off on the morning of July 4, and other events are happening over the holiday weekend. 

The 2026 parade theme, "America 250 — Pittsfield Celebrates the Generations,"  will celebrate 250 years of the nation and Pittsfield.  People, floats, cars, balloons, and more will proceed down South, North, and Wahconah streets to thousands of spectators.

On Wednesday, the Pittsfield Parade Committee announced Vincent "Vin" Marinaro as the 2026 Grand Marshal.  The lifelong Pittsfield resident has been a mentor, educator, coach, advocate, and leader, said to have left a lasting impact on generations of Pittsfield families. 

He began his career teaching in Pittsfield's Catholic schools, coaching youth sports, and managing the Catholic Youth Center, later bringing that same passion for service to the Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, serving as Executive Director from 2010 until his retirement in 2018.

"Under his leadership, the center expanded programs, strengthened community connections, and became an even more vibrant gathering place for older adults. His commitment to service did not stop there," the parade committee wrote. 

"A devoted member of the Rotary Club of Pittsfield since 1995, Vin has exemplified Rotary's motto of Service Above Self. In 2024, he was installed as District Governor for Rotary District 7890, representing clubs throughout Western Massachusetts and Northern Connecticut. Along the way, he has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Gerard D. Downing Service to Children Award and a designation as a Paul Harris Fellow." 

The parade dates back to 1801, and the parade committee was formed in the late 1970s.  Today, it brings residents, families, organizations, and visitors together on the Fourth of July, historically kicking off at 10 a.m. on the dot. 

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